Advances in Reducing Household Electrical and Electronic Equipment Energy Consumption in Standby Mode: A Review of Emerging Strategies, Policies, and Technologies

Andrei Cosmin Gheorghe (), Horia Andrei (), Emil Diaconu and Paul Cristian Andrei
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Andrei Cosmin Gheorghe: Doctoral School of Engineering Valahia, University “Valahia” of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
Horia Andrei: Doctoral School of Engineering Valahia, University “Valahia” of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
Emil Diaconu: Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Information Technology, University “Valahia” of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
Paul Cristian Andrei: Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University “Politehnica” of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 4, 1-22

Abstract: Standby power consumption in household electrical and electronic equipment remains a persistent source of energy waste worldwide. Despite regulatory measures and ongoing technological developments, a considerable amount of electricity is still consumed by devices in standby or “off-mode”, resulting in higher utility costs and carbon emissions. This review synthesizes the latest research to clarify the scale of standby energy consumption, discusses relevant policies and regulations, and explores intelligent technologies and behavioral strategies that minimize energy consumption. Starting from the theoretical analysis and modeling of equipment consumption in standby mode to the implementation of intelligent systems to reduce it, the paper highlights heuristic optimization methods, smart grid integration, and occupant-centered interventions, all of which demonstrate tangible energy savings. This research was carried out in close connection with current policies regarding energy consumption and sustainable development, respectively, with the implementation of new technologies. Thus, in accordance with the latest European directives, the intelligent systems used have reduced the energy consumption of some common household appliances by 26.68 kWh. Additionally, knowledge gaps, particularly regarding user behavior, data granularity, and the integration of advanced analytics that limit the efficacy of current solutions, are identified. Recommendations for future research, emphasizing the importance of harmonized policies, precise data measurement, and artificial-intelligence-driven approaches for further reducing standby loads, are finally presented.

Keywords: standby power; household energy consumption; energy efficiency; smart appliances; demand response; energy policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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